Psychiatrists in 07054

Photo of Gaurav Vishnoi, Psychiatrist, MD
Gaurav Vishnoi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Holistic Mind Healing Psychiatry– Integrating Mind, Body, and Soul. At Holistic Mind Healing PC, I provide compassionate, personalized care to help clients navigate life’s challenges and improve their well-being. My approach integrates traditional psychiatric care and holistic strategies, creating a balanced treatment plan that supports healing from the inside out. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to guide you through the process of recovery and growth. I am a South Asian/Indian psychiatrist based in New Jersey, offering my patients personalized, culturally attuned care.
Holistic Mind Healing Psychiatry– Integrating Mind, Body, and Soul. At Holistic Mind Healing PC, I provide compassionate, personalized care to help clients navigate life’s challenges and improve their well-being. My approach integrates traditional psychiatric care and holistic strategies, creating a balanced treatment plan that supports healing from the inside out. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to guide you through the process of recovery and growth. I am a South Asian/Indian psychiatrist based in New Jersey, offering my patients personalized, culturally attuned care.
(862) 429-3850 View (862) 429-3850
Photo of Vaishali Desai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Photo of Ozan Toy - Telapsychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist
Telapsychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
(862) 247-4356 View (862) 247-4356
Photo of Sandhya C Praveen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sandhya C Praveen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Sandhya praveen is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry to diagnose, treat and prescribe medications for children, adolescent and adults. Some of her practice specialty includes ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. Sandhya has a Masters of Science degree in nursing.)
Sandhya praveen is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry to diagnose, treat and prescribe medications for children, adolescent and adults. Some of her practice specialty includes ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. Sandhya has a Masters of Science degree in nursing.)
(862) 325-5506 View (862) 325-5506
Photo of Glenn Ludan - BirchWood Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
BirchWood Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Online Only
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
(862) 306-1180 View (862) 306-1180
Photo of Shannon McElroy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPbc
Shannon McElroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPbc
Online Only
Hey! I’m Shannon—board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, wife, and girl mom. I’m the heart behind Resilient Roots Wellness, a practice dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. With over 11 years of experience in psychiatry, I know that mental health is more than just managing symptoms—it’s about truly understanding each individual’s needs. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, ADHD, depression, or other mental health concerns, I provide thorough evaluations and medication management to help you feel your best.
Hey! I’m Shannon—board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, wife, and girl mom. I’m the heart behind Resilient Roots Wellness, a practice dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. With over 11 years of experience in psychiatry, I know that mental health is more than just managing symptoms—it’s about truly understanding each individual’s needs. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, ADHD, depression, or other mental health concerns, I provide thorough evaluations and medication management to help you feel your best.
(862) 356-5371 View (862) 356-5371
Photo of Yelena Khaysman, Psychiatrist, MD
Yelena Khaysman
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
(973) 359-5798 View (973) 359-5798
Photo of Joseph Fleschner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Joseph Fleschner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Whether treating childhood behavior issues, trauma, PTSD, or substance abuse, Joe focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where patients feel understood and empowered to make positive changes. His expertise in trauma-informed care makes him a trusted resource for those recovering from difficult life experiences, including healthcare workers and individuals in civil service roles. In addition to his clinical work, Joe is experienced in addressing a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
Whether treating childhood behavior issues, trauma, PTSD, or substance abuse, Joe focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where patients feel understood and empowered to make positive changes. His expertise in trauma-informed care makes him a trusted resource for those recovering from difficult life experiences, including healthcare workers and individuals in civil service roles. In addition to his clinical work, Joe is experienced in addressing a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
(862) 407-3732 View (862) 407-3732
Photo of Raynald Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
(929) 590-9720 View (929) 590-9720
Photo of Julianne Palardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Julianne Palardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
My ideal client is looking for a mental health provider that has vast clinical experience. I have been in the medical profession for over 22 years. I am the ideal person for someone that seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care. You can book an immediate appointment with me through the website listed below, thank you.
My ideal client is looking for a mental health provider that has vast clinical experience. I have been in the medical profession for over 22 years. I am the ideal person for someone that seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care. You can book an immediate appointment with me through the website listed below, thank you.
(862) 453-8814 View (862) 453-8814
Photo of Dr. Julianne Palardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Julianne Palardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
My ideal client seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care.
My ideal client seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care.
(973) 315-8232 View (973) 315-8232
Photo of Hong Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(917) 727-6576 View (917) 727-6576
Photo of Samantha Kaoutarani - Cedarview Health - Samantha Kaoutarani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, APRN
Cedarview Health - Samantha Kaoutarani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, feeling frustrated by past treatments that didn’t quite work. They want more than just symptom relief—they’re looking for understanding, balance, and a plan that truly fits their life. They need a provider who listens, validates their experiences, and works with them to create a treatment approach that feels right for them. www.cedarview.health
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, feeling frustrated by past treatments that didn’t quite work. They want more than just symptom relief—they’re looking for understanding, balance, and a plan that truly fits their life. They need a provider who listens, validates their experiences, and works with them to create a treatment approach that feels right for them. www.cedarview.health
(551) 373-3331 View (551) 373-3331
Photo of Melissa Grudic - Cedarview Health - Dr. Melissa Grudic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Cedarview Health - Dr. Melissa Grudic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Perhaps you’re struggling with depression, trauma, ADHD, or other mental health challenges that impact your daily life, relationships, or ability to function at your best. You want relief—clarity, stability, and the tools to move forward. Maybe you’ve tried to manage on your own, but you’re looking for professional guidance that is compassionate, understanding, and tailored to your unique needs. Your goal is not just to “get by,” but to truly heal, grow, and reclaim a sense of control and fulfillment in your life. www.cedarview.health
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Perhaps you’re struggling with depression, trauma, ADHD, or other mental health challenges that impact your daily life, relationships, or ability to function at your best. You want relief—clarity, stability, and the tools to move forward. Maybe you’ve tried to manage on your own, but you’re looking for professional guidance that is compassionate, understanding, and tailored to your unique needs. Your goal is not just to “get by,” but to truly heal, grow, and reclaim a sense of control and fulfillment in your life. www.cedarview.health
(551) 305-3396 View (551) 305-3396
Photo of Katrina Villacorta - Cedarview Health - Dr Katrina Villacorta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Cedarview Health - Dr Katrina Villacorta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—struggling to manage daily life, relationships, or emotions. Maybe you've tried coping on your own but need guidance to break patterns and find relief. You want to feel understood, to regain control, and to move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Your goal is to heal, to find balance, and to work with someone who listens and truly cares about your journey. www.cedarview.health
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—struggling to manage daily life, relationships, or emotions. Maybe you've tried coping on your own but need guidance to break patterns and find relief. You want to feel understood, to regain control, and to move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Your goal is to heal, to find balance, and to work with someone who listens and truly cares about your journey. www.cedarview.health
(973) 577-9334 View (973) 577-9334
Photo of William D Becker, Psychiatrist, MD
William D Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
(973) 292-0758 View (973) 292-0758
Photo of Tamara Weisman, Psychiatrist, DO
Tamara Weisman
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.
Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.
(908) 493-5292 View (908) 493-5292
Photo of Oyebola Asenuga - Oyebola Asenuga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
Oyebola Asenuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
(908) 293-9535 View (908) 293-9535
Merritt Hubsher
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(973) 233-4109 View (973) 233-4109
Photo of Margaret Gorny, Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Margaret Gorny
Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Serves Area
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
(973) 845-4092 View (973) 845-4092
1

See more therapy options for 07054

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07054

20+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 07054 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07054 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07054?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.